Nominations Sought For Region’s Oldest Community Service Award

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts is seeking nominations from throughout Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire counties for the Pynchon Award, which recognizes those citizens of our region who have rendered distinguished service to the community.

The Order of William Pynchon was established by the Advertising Club in 1915 to recognize and encourage individuals whose lives and achievements typified the ideals of promoting citizenship and the building of a better community in western Massachusetts. Past recipients include war heroes, social activists, teachers, volunteers, philanthropists, historians, clergy, physicians, journalists, public servants, and business leaders — a diverse group; each with a passion for our region and a selfless streak. A complete list of recipients since 1915 can be found at http://www.adclubwm.org/events/pynchonaward.

To nominate an individual, please submit a one-page letter explaining why the nominee should be considered. Please include biographical information, outstanding accomplishments, examples of service to the community, organizations he or she is or has been active in, and the names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses of at least three people who can further attest to the nominee’s eligibility for induction into the Order of William Pynchon.

All nominees will be considered and researched by the Pynchon Trustees, comprised of the current and five past presidents of the Advertising Club. Nominations must be submitted by February 28, 2017 to: William Pynchon Trustees, Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts, P.O. Box 1022, West Springfield, MA 01090-1022 or by e-mail to info@adclubwm.org.

Pynchon medalists are chosen by unanimous decision of the Pynchon Trustees. 2017 recipients will be announced in June 2017; with an awards ceremony scheduled for October 19, 2017 at The Log Cabin, Holyoke, Mass. Recipients are presented with a bronze medal cast with the name and likeness of Springfield’s founder, William Pynchon, and bearing the inscription: “They honor us whom we honor.”

For more information, contact: David Cecchi (413) 786-3236 or cecco@devidcecchi.com